Mesa Leadership Class of 2025, a group of community leaders, has begun a project to raise money to install a sail shade structure, seating and trash receptacles near the new soccer field at the Ross Farnsworth–East Valley YMCA in Mesa.

The class will hold its first fundraising event — Jackpot & Jams — 6-10 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8, at The Post, 26 N. MacDonald, in Mesa, according to a release.

The Ross Farnsworth–East Valley Family YMCA, 1807 S. Sunview in Mesa, opened in October 2009. The new soccer field is the first of many outdoor recreational/athletic activities to be placed on land adjacent to the YMCA that was donated by AT Still University.

The soccer field turf was donated by the Arizona Cardinals NFL team and installed by the YMCA. Development of a master plan to add additional recreational opportunities will be undertaken in the near future.

The Mesa Leadership Class of 2025 chose for its class project to provide a shade structure and seating that can be used by players during practice as well as families and friends supporting soccer players at practices and games. Trash receptacles are to provide facilities for those using the field to dispose of cups, wrappers, etc. to keep the area clear of debris and assist in the maintenance and proper upkeep of the field. In addition, youth who participate in the YMCA child care programs will use the field as well as the shade and seating provided by this project, the release states.

The target fundraising goal is $25,000. More information about Mesa Leadership and fundraising for this community project can be found at MesaLeadership.org.

How to contribute:

• Attend Jackpot & Jams. Join for a “Neon Night of Giving,” including entertainment and philanthropy 6-10 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 8, at The Post, 26 N. MacDonald in downtown Mesa. Purchase event tickets for $60 each at https://mesaleadership.org/meetinginfo.php?id=36&ts=1735965770. The price includes one drink ticket, $100 in casino chips and two raffle tickets.
• Businesses and individuals are invited to sponsor this fundraising event. Various sponsorship packages are available starting at $500, providing an opportunity for visibility and community engagement. Purchase sponsorships at https://mesaleadership.org/meetinginfo.php?id=36&ts=1735965770
• Even if you cannot attend the event, consider making a donation at https://mesaleadership.org/meetinginfo.php?id=36&ts=1735965770
• Donate an item for the raffle, silent auction and/or wine pull and receive event recognition.
• Donations by cash or check made payable to MCCBEF and mailed to: Attn: Mesa Leadership, 165 N. Centennial Way, No. 208, Mesa, AZ 85201.

The Mesa Leadership Training & Development Program was inaugurated in 1981 with the belief that every community has potential leaders who are seeking the opportunity to serve and who need the exposure to the information, organizations and leaders to make that service possible.

The Mesa Leadership Training & Development Program is a 501(c)(3) organization and is sponsored by the Mesa Chamber of Commerce. The program is administered by volunteers who serve as board members, program and curriculum development committees, and community liaisons.

Mesa Leadership does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, age religion or religious creed, disability, sex or gender.